12 Foods That Could Make Your Skin Brighter and Healthier

Can you eat your way to good skin? While diet isn't the only factor when it comes to a glowing complexion, it certainly can't hurt to incorporate foods that are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals into your routine.

1. Avocado

Avocado is a healthy fat that supplies you with omega-3, which strengthens the skin cells. We love the unexpected pairing of rich avocado with sweet honeydew.

Tomatoes get their color from lycopene, a carotenoid that may help protect your skin from sun damage. Levels of this antioxidant are higher when the tomatoes are cooked, like in our oh-so-simple slow-roasted cherry tomato sauce.

Dense in skin-firming vitamins A, C, and K, not to mention fiber and calcium, kale may not be as trendy as it used to be, but it’s still just as healthy. And tasty when baked into chips!

Make lassi, a traditional Indian yogurt-based drink, with fresh papaya, which packs plenty of antioxidant power in the form of lycopene and vitamin C.

They say good things come in small packages, and when it comes to skin benefits, kiwi is no exception. The little fruit is rich in vitamin C, which stimulates collagen production and keeps skin taut. We love tossing some into our morning yogurt.

Pumpkin seeds are a strong source of zinc, an anti-inflammatory mineral that prevents bacteria from forming and possibly causing acne. We love flavoring ours with cinnamon, cumin, cayenne, and honey.

Oily fish such as wild salmon contains a wealth of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for healthy, hydrated skin.

Kombucha, the popular fermented tea, contains gut-friendly probiotics, which are just as good for your skin. It also delivers a satisfying fizz and makes a delicious booze-free michelada when mixed with lime juice and tomato paste.

The crunchy green brings vitamin A and potassium to the table, which refreshes your skin and promotes circulation. It also makes a great base for salads like this take on a Caesar that incorporates spinach and tangy buttermilk.

Veggies and fruits usually get all the credit for being skin boosters, but don't forget about herbs! Rosemary's packed with good-for-you antioxidants, too. Stir this rosemary honey into tea, add a layer to ricotta toast, or use as a glaze for roasted meats.

We've all heard people extol the virtues of lemon water. Take it to the next level by making a skin-detoxifying "tea" out of lemon, anti-inflammatory turmeric, honey, and cayenne.

This mushroom variety is loaded with selenium, which improves skin elasticity. Add them regularly to stir-fries or soups or steam them with brown rice and greens in parchment for a super nutritious dinner.